Macbook pro: what's better, 2.7 or 2.9GhZ?

I also work with Adobe programs and FCP X and the RAM is more important than the processor in my opinion. To be honest, just pay $200 and get the base 15-inch model that comes with 16 gb of RAM and a 2.2 ghz i7 with 4 cores instead of 2. That way you get the bigger screen and much better performance.

I think you'll be better off that way if you can afford it. 4 cores instead of 2 really is a godsend for multimedia purposes as well as 16 gb of RAM.

You are right, the only time the difference between the two is noticeable is when you are running processor intensive applications and even then you may not notice the difference all that often. Photoshop is a good example. If you often apply batch filters or other batch processes the faster processor will show its stuff. But when you are getting rid of facial blemishes or removing a tourist from a photo it won't. Personally, I save the extra $$ for more RAM and/or a bigger drive.

Go for the 2.7 and take the money difference and get more RAM.